How Much Does Tropical Fish Keeping Cost? Monthly Running Costs Explained

Tropical fish like guppies, neon tetras, and bettas offer tremendous variety and are popular as an introduction to the aquarium hobby. Compared to marine fish, costs are more manageable and getting started is relatively easy. Here we simulate initial setup and monthly running costs based on a standard 60cm aquarium.

Initial Setup Cost Estimates

• Aquarium (60cm): 3,000-10,000 yen (starter kits with light and filter offer good value)
• External filter / top filter: 3,000-8,000 yen (varies by filtration method)
• Heater (with thermostat): 2,000-4,000 yen (essential for tropical fish)
• Substrate / soil: 1,000-3,000 yen
• Plants, driftwood, rocks: 1,000-5,000 yen (layout costs vary by preference)
• Water conditioner (dechlorinator, bacteria starter): 1,000-2,000 yen
• Lighting: 1,500-5,000 yen (slightly higher performance needed if growing plants)

The total initial setup cost is estimated at 15,000-40,000 yen. Using a starter kit can further reduce the initial investment.

Monthly Running Costs

• Electricity: 1,000-3,000 yen (depends on heater, lighting, and filter power consumption)
• Fish food: 300-1,000 yen (varies by type -- flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworms, etc.)
• Water conditioner (dechlorinator): 300-500 yen
• Filter consumables (media, sponge replacement): 200-500 yen

The monthly maintenance cost totals 2,000-6,000 yen, making it relatively affordable among aquarium hobbies.

Tips for Saving Money

• Choose a top filter: Less expensive than external filters and easier to maintain
• Switch to LED with timer control: Replacing fluorescent lights with LEDs can cut electricity costs in half
• Portion fish food to maintain freshness: Preventing leftover food from polluting the water also saves on filter consumables
• Enjoy breeding: Easily bred species like guppies and platies can eliminate fish purchase costs entirely

Benefits of Buying on Buri-Choku

On Buri-Choku, you can purchase tropical fish directly from breeders.

• Rare varieties at affordable prices: Hard-to-find improved guppy and betta varieties can be purchased directly from breeders
• Healthy specimens: Carefully managed by breeders, reducing losses after purchase
• Rich care information: Get direct advice from breeders on care tips and breeding methods